In April 2023, KAUST collaborated with Saudi Food Bank Etaam to donate 71 food baskets, valued at 295 SAR each, throughout the Thuwal Province. Thanks to the generosity of the KAUST community, this initiative helped provide essential resources while supporting our local community and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Vision 2030’s objectives of enabling social responsibility and strengthening Islamic values and national identity.

At the heart of Ramadan lies the meaningful aspect of sharing. This is a time when individuals are encouraged to extend their kindness and compassion to those in need, both within their communities and beyond. Through charitable acts, we are able to foster a sense of unity and empathy. Sharing during Ramadan is an important way to give back, connect with others, and practice a meaningful and uplifting tradition.

The initiative, led by KAUST’s Food Safety and Quality Assurance team in Community Life, is part of KAUST’s mission to make a positive and sustainable impact.

The Saudi Food Bank is a charitable organization that specializes in food. Its “Etaam” business model aims to establish strategic alliances to benefit from surplus food resources and distribute them to those in need. Etaam seeks to contribute to the preservation of food resources and reduce waste by making use of leftovers, achieve food security by providing sustainable food to beneficiaries, and promote studies and research. At KAUST, we are committed to empowering local and national communities through meaningful and impactful initiatives, and we believe that by working together with other organizations, we can create positive change.

Furthermore, this initiative specifically supported the UN Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, and 10. SDG1 aims to end poverty in all forms, including ensuring all people have access to basic resources such as food, water, and healthcare. SDG 2 aims to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition. And SDG10 is focused on reducing inequalities, including promoting social, economic, and inclusion of all people, regardless of their background or status.

Find out more about how KAUST is empowering local and national communities.